Wisteria

Is Wisteria Poisonous? The Answer Might Surprise You

Q: Is Wisteria poisonous to touch?

Yes, all parts of Wisteria are considered poisonous to humans and pets if ingested. While direct skin contact is generally not toxic for most people, it's a best practice to be careful while touching or handling Wisteria, especially the seed pods. It is recommended to wear gloves and full sleeves as a precaution to avoid accidental contact or possible minor skin irritation.

Q: What to do if you consume Wisteria?

If you, a child, or a pet consumes any part of the Wisteria plant, you must seek medical attention immediately. Contact a poison control center (like 1-800-222-1222 in the US) or an experienced doctor without delay. Quick action is essential, as the poison can be managed more effectively if steps are taken immediately after consumption.

Q: What are the toxic properties of Wisteria?

The primary toxic properties of Wisteria are complex compounds, notably a lectin called Wisterin (which is often categorized under the broader term 'lectins') and certain glycosides. These chemicals are concentrated in the seeds and seed pods, making those parts the most poisonous. Ingestion can lead to severe stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Faisal Mustafa

Aug 10, 2024

Wisteria is a beautiful flowering vine that is highly popular among gardeners. Although these flowers are very beautiful and grab a place in your heart with just a look, they can be dangerous.

A common question among Wisteria lovers is, “Is Wisteria Poisonous?” Well, Wisteria is like a double-edged sword, both beautiful and dangerous. If consumed, it can harm you and even your pet. Let’s dive into the details.

Wisteria Toxicity

There are many reports of the fatality of small animals and children from consuming Wisteria. There are two main toxic properties of Wisteria. These are –

Lectin
Glycoside

Both of these can result in fatality if consumed. Especially the seed pods, and the seeds are very toxic. They produce the highest amount of lectin and glycoside. Lectin is responsible for blood clotting and the formation of dangerous blood clots. It can result in a stroke. The glycoside of Wisteria can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting, resulting in dehydration and death.

What does wisteria do to the body?

The main way that wisteria affects the body is through its toxic components, which are especially present in the seeds and pods and contain lectins and wisterin, which can cause poisoning if consumed.

When taken in, these toxins cause symptoms like diarrhea, cramping in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting (often with blood), and burning in the mouth. Headache, lightheadedness, disorientation, profuse perspiration, and, in rare cases, fainting or syncopal episodes are examples of more severe symptoms. These effects, which can include weakness and dehydration, usually appear a few hours after consumption.

Can wisteria poison kill humans?

As you already know, Wisteria is poisonous to humans, too. For humans, the whole plant is poisonous and can cause serious damage because of lectin and wistin glycoside. If any person accidentally consumes wisteria, especially its seeds and pods, seek immediate medical attention. When wisteria poisoning is present in the human body, it exhibits certain symptoms, including oral burning sensation, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.

As you can see, it is pretty dangerous and will cause a lot of pain. So, what should we do? Should we boycott wisteria? The answer is NO. Just make sure to wear sleeves and gloves while handling Wisteria, like pruning and replanting.

Is Wisteria Poisonous for Pets?

Just like humans, Wisteria is highly poisonous for pets. Lectin and wisterin are equally poisonous for dogs, cats, or any other pets. If ingested, Wisteria poisoning in small animals can cause death. It can start with stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting with signs of blood. You can go for vomiting and fluid therapy, and contact a professional vet immediately. These medical treatments will flush the toxin out of the body if started right after the ingestion.

As Wisteria can be fatal for pets, make sure you plant it in a place where your pets can’t reach. Also, you can train your pets to stay out of the area of wisteria.

Which part of wisteria is edible?

Yes! But the only edible part of the wisteria is the flowers. Except that, all other parts, including seeds, pods, leaves, and stems, are toxic and should not be consumed because they contain poisonous compounds like wisterin. Wisteria flowers can be safely eaten raw or cooked and are sometimes used as a sweet or savory garnish, or infused into liquids like cream or syrup. However, due to the toxicity of other parts, it is important to only harvest and eat the flowers and avoid any ingestion of seeds or pods, which can cause serious poisoning symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, and confusion. Enjoy wisteria flowers cautiously and never consume other parts of the plant.

Bottom Line

Without any doubt, Wisteria is a plant of beauty and is prized in the gardening community. But, as it comes with a risk of putting your kids and pets in danger, being careful is the key to enjoying its beauty. Be cautious while going near the tree, and always protect your hands using gloves.

Wisteria can be your partner for decades and even centuries if you are careful enough and take proper care of it. If your Wisteria is a bonsai, then put it in a place where your pets and kids can’t reach. It is always better to be careful than regret it later.

FAQs

Is Wisteria poisonous to touch?

Well, all parts of Wisteria are poisonous to humans and your pets. So, you’d better be careful while touching or handling Wisteria. Wear gloves and full sleeves.

What to do if you consume Wisteria?

First things first, consult an experienced doctor. The poison can be washed out if steps are taken immediately after consumption.

What are the toxic properties of Wisteria?

Two properties of Wisteria make it poisonous. They are glycosides and lectins. Wisteria seeds and seed pods generate the largest amount of both of these poisonous chemicals. So, they are the most poisonous.